Acura’s MDX SUV gets a new look and powertrain for 2010

Joining the updated RDX for the 2010 model year is a revised MDX SUV, which like its smaller sibling gets a series of styling, performance, and technology updates. For 2010, the MDX features a fresh new exterior look, a revised powertrain that includes a new 6-speed automatic, chassis refinements, more comfort, and improved technology and a longer standard equipment list.

Visually, the 7-passenger 2010 MDX receives more aggressive styling in the form of new front and rear bodywork, a new front grille and numerous new trim enhancements. Other details include a revised hood, new side sills, polished stainless-steel exhaust tips, and revised taillights with brighter LED lights. Under the hood, the MDX receives a more refined 3.7L V6 engine that teams with a 6-speed automatic transmission.

Ride and handling have been enhanced as a result of a revised power steering system, stiffer rear trailing arm mounting and body rigidity improvements. Acura’s Super Handling AWD (SH-AWD) remains standard.

The major change to the 2010 MDX’s specifications include the introduction of the new Advance package, which gets a revised active damper system and 19-inch wheels and tires.

Inside, the 2010 MDX benefits from the expanded use of Milano leather, a new thicker sport steering wheel with racing-inspired paddle shifters, new gauges, optional ventilated front seats and upgraded interior trim. Some new features include AcuraLink real-time weather and traffic updates, an 8-inch navigation screen, a reversing camera, and a 15GB hard-drive multimedia system with USB and iPod connectivity.

For 2010 the MDX receives a new 3.7-liter VTEC V6 engine that boasts an output of 300hp and 270lb-ft of torque. To widen the powerband while simultaneously improving fuel efficiency, the latest V6 engine features variable valve adjustment of the intake valves, revised high-lift camshafts, a computer controlled dual-stage induction system and an electronic drive-by-wire throttle system.

Internally, the new 3.7L V6 makes use of special heavy-duty components including a more rigid cylinder block, high-strength crankshaft, heavy-duty connecting rods, high compression-ratio pistons, cylinder heads with improved cooling, and new intake valve springs.

The EPA estimated city/highway fuel economy comes in at 16/21mpg - an improvement of 1mpg city and 1mpg highway over the 2009 model.

Part of this fuel saving comes from the addition of a new 6-speed sequential automatic gearbox along with a new multi-clutch torque converter. With comparatively short gearing in the first five forward gears, acceleration is enhanced- while fuel efficiency and quiet cruising are optimized with a relaxed sixth gear ratio. The transmission offers two automatic shift modes, or can be operated manually via F1-inspired steering wheel paddle shifters. To support the MDX's 5,000 pound towing capacity, a special front-mount transmission fluid cooler is employed.